DRT+Comp

Book Review: Doing Remote Theatre by Nick Bilbrough (Hands Up Theatre)

While many of us think that the Pandemic has made us change elements of our teaching – possible forever, possibly for good – one of the challenges of keeping Drama alive with young people was
trying to produce performance working remotely. Some of the work that was produced was
amazing, asking students to access technology that they knew to create original and exciting theatre.
On the other hand, some students were unable to feel confident in this format and so no
performance work could be produced.

This is why this book is one of the most remarkable things I’ve read. Nick Bilborough and the
Hands Up project have been producing remote theatre since before the rest of us even knew there
was such a thing. Their award-winning annual Remote Theatre competition for young people in
Palestine had been running for some years before Coronavirus and they have been using simple
technology to create this style of theatre for some time.

The Hands Up Project is a charity trust which, through its network of volunteers, connects children around the world with young people in Palestine. By means of online interaction, drama and storytelling activities, it enables the use of creativity and self-expression to promote mutual understanding, personal growth, and the development of English language skills. If you are interested in learning more about their work or even volunteering have a look at their website.

The book is clearly laid out with a first section which comprises the “how to…” section which offers
the benefit of Nick’s extensive experience in the practicalities of creating remote theatre and the
the second half is a series of 28 short plays that can be used for remote performance (although frankly,
they could be used as straightforward performance text, or as a stimulus for devised work).
The practical advice section is very much about that; it’s a practical guide to all things remote
theatre, supported by cheerful photos and QR codes which allow you access footage of exemplar of
how certain plays and effects were achieved. It offers suggestions of both how you can perform with
everybody in one room to a remote audience or how you can create a piece with everybody in their
own space.

The plays cover a wide range of topics and are deliberately short. The object here is to create a
meaningful experience for participants, perhaps sometimes more than the audience, and there are
some hints on how to develop and add to the performance. All the plays are photocopiable.
I loved this book. I was first moved by the stories and the performances of plays (they are also lots of
them on YouTube) where you have a real insight into the joy and commitment of these young
performers. And then rereading the tips and hints on how to do the project, I really want to give it a
go. I’m already planning something for Year 9….

To find out more and buy this book click here.